What is the job? The Poliomyelitis Research Foundation (PRF) is looking for students who want to study viruses in depth. If you’re planning a Master’s or a PhD in Virology, PRF offers a bursary that will cover most of your research costs for the next two or three years. This helps South Africa grow stronger in fighting infectious diseases and developing new medical ideas.
When can you apply?
The application deadlines are 15 September 2025 for the first round and 28 February 2026 for the second round. If you miss either date, you won’t be able to get the bursary this year.
What do I need to study?
PRF only funds research that is about viruses. You must be enrolled in a recognised South African university and be working on a BSc Hons, MSc or PhD in Virology. Your project has to stay the same unless PRF says it can change.
How long will the funding last?
- For an MSc student, the bursary can cover up to two years of work.
- For a PhD student, the bursary can cover up to three years (unless there are special reasons that shorten it).
Important note: Once you start, you cannot change the research topic unless PRF gives permission.
Who can apply?
You must meet all the following basic requirements:
- You should be a South African citizen or a permanent resident.
- You must be registered for a postgraduate degree that involves virology research.
- Your latest overall average must be at least 60 %.
If any of these conditions aren’t satisfied, your application will not be reviewed.
How to get the bursary – three simple steps
Step 1 – Fill out the online form
Choose the right form for your level:
When the form asks how you found out about the bursary, write www.zabursaries.co.za.
Step 2 – Upload supporting documents
New applicants need:
- A CV that is no more than two pages – include any research papers if you have them.
- Your academic record.
- A proof of your degree registration.
- The completed Grants Application Signatory Form in PDF.
- If you are applying for an MSc, a copy showing you finished your BSc.
- If you are applying for a PhD, a copy showing you finished your MSc.
- Any other useful information. If you need to show graphs, attach them in a PDF file.
Renewal applicants should submit:
- For MSc – the Grants Application Signatory Form in PDF.
- For PhD – a progress report from your supervisor.
- Any extra supporting information, again with graphs in PDF.
Missing any of these documents can lead to your application being rejected.
Step 3 – Send the final form by email
Download the PRF Final Bursary Form and fill it out. Email the finished document to prf@nicd.ac.za. In the subject line put “PRF Bursary Application – BSc (Hons)”, “MSc”, or “PhD” depending on which form you used.
For renewal applicants, also attach the items listed above and any new evidence that helps your case.
Keep these dates in mind
- First closing date: 15 September 2025.
- Second closing date: 28 February 2026.
- Applications received after these dates will not be accepted.
Apply early, double‑check everything, and you’ll give yourself the best chance of receiving the bursary. Good luck with your research – it can make a real difference in how we understand and fight viruses.